I’m happy to announce an upcoming group exhibition featuring artworks crafted using recycled paper. This event celebrates artistic innovation and environmental consciousness.
- Workhouse Union Prologue, Callan, Co. Kilkenny, R95 KC95 Ireland
- August 14th to 18th 2024
- Part of Kilkenny Alternative Arts Festival
Watch the Process Video
About the "Enchanted Cats" Mixed Media Mini-Series
“Enchanted Cats” by Dee Stoppa is a captivating mini-series of five mixed-media artworks inspired by the enigmatic and mystical symbolism of cats throughout history. Each piece uniquely intertwines recycled paper, ink drawings, and hand embroidery, creating an organic and deeply textured visual narrative that honours both the majesty of cats and the beauty of imperfection. This series evokes a profound sense of wonder and mystery, inviting viewers into a magical realm where the essence of these feline beings comes to life.
Materials and Techniques
– Recycled Paper: The foundation of each artwork is made from recycled paper, chosen for its unique imperfections and distinctive features. The paper’s natural variations add depth and character, emphasising the series’ embrace of imperfection.
– Ink Drawings: The ink drawings, executed in an imperfect freestyle manner, depict various interpretations of cats—each piece exuding the feline’s grace, mystery, and symbolic essence. The fluid and spontaneous lines capture the essence of these creatures in a raw and expressive form.
– Hand Embroidery and Cotton Threads: Delicate hand embroidery overlays the ink drawings, using premium cotton threads. This technique adds layers of texture and dimension, blending seamlessly with the ink to enhance the visual storytelling.
– Navy Cotton Fabric: The background fabric in navy cotton provides a rich, deep contrast to the ink and embroidery, framing the artwork beautifully and adding a touch of elegance.
– Beechwood Hoop Frames: Each piece is framed in a premium quality beechwood hoop frame with metal clasps. This finish not only provides a refined and finished look but also makes the artworks ready to hang. The use of natural wood complements the organic feel of the series. Three pieces are set in 10-inch hoops and two in 8-inch hoops.
"Enchanted Cats" is a harmonious blend of recycled materials and fine craftsmanship, celebrating the timeless allure of cats through history. Each artwork is a testament to the beauty of imperfections, evoking a sense of wonder and mystery. These pieces serve as a reminder of the powerful symbolism of cats—representing intuition, personal empowerment, strength, and mystery—inviting viewers to explore the symbolic depth and visual richness of this unique mixed media series.
What is Atelier Páipéar?
Inspired by the revolutionary Atelier Populaire movement in 1960s France, Atelier Páipéar aims to unite visual artists from various disciplines and foster an awareness of sustainable practices.
Our páipéar is meticulously crafted by a team of students, led by Dr. Autumn Reynolds This unique paper is made from recycled materials such as used coffee beans, clothing, straw, and more.
The Atelier Páipéar Art Exhibition showcases the extraordinary potential of recycled materials in art. From intricate paper sculptures to stunning paper paintings, this event highlights the creativity and ingenuity of artists committed to sustainability across all artistic backgrounds.
Atelier Páipéar is devoted to nurturing a community focused on artistic expression through sustainable means.
Feeling Inspired?
Art Materials (similar to those used in this project):
– Embroidery Hoops: https://amzn.to/3WbUhJM
– Cotton Threads: https://amzn.to/4fh7kSX